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Page 15 April 2017 The Official Newspaper of the Libertarian Party Volume 47, Issue 2 In This Issue: NH Rep. Caleb Dyer defects from GOP to LP Chair’s corner...... 2 t a press conference on Feb. 9, Rep. LP News“[Libertarian ballot LP campaigns...... 3–6 Caleb Dyer, who was elected to Young LP leaders...... 4 the New Hampshire legislature as access] is truly a golden Aa Republican, announced his switch to the opportunity to establish Libertarians in office...... 5, 7 Libertarian Party. LPHI chair pushes decrim...... 6 Dyer was one of 11 candidates out of 20 ourselves as a viable LNC 2016 Annual Report...... 8–9 who won at-large seats in the Hillsborough alternative [to the 37 District. Because he was elected in Nov. Republican Party] and History preservation committee...10 2016, he will serve most of his two-year become advocates for Ballot access update...... 10 term as a Libertarian. Dyer’s switch to the LP was motivated in principled, classically LP calls for Libertarian on CPD.....10 part by its achieving official party status in liberal policy.” Ruling for LP in FEC challenge...... 11 New Hampshire in 2016 for the first time in –Rep. Caleb Dyer (L–N.H.) twenty years, and with it, access to the ballot. Featured LP supporters...... 11, 12 “This fact should be seen as a warn- portunity to establish ourselves as a viable Rep. Caleb Dyer announcing his switch Affiliate updates...... 13–15 ing to members of the majority that their alternative to this representation and be- to the Libertarian Party, flanked LP reacts to Trump speech...... 14 constituency is slowly but surely growing come advocates for principled, classically by LPNH officers Darryl Perry (chair) and Jilletta Jarvis (secretary) Convention 2018 theme...... 15 discontent[ed] with increasingly partisan liberal policy.” representation,” Dyer said. “For elected Dyer has stated that he: 2017 state conventions...... 16 Republicans like myself who have liber- • supports tax credits or refunds for Media buzz...... 16 tarian leanings, this is truly a golden op- parents who choose to home-school continued on page 5... Libertarian Party wins court case against FEC and CPD by Carla Howell The FEC acted “arbitrarily, n a victory for presidential debates’ being more open, capriciously, and contrary to law” a U.S. District Court ruled on Feb. 1 against the FEC in the case Level the Playing Field et al v. Federal Elec- with respect to its conclusion that Ition Commission. The lawsuit, in which the Libertarian the polling criterion set by the Party is a co-plaintiff, aims to make more fair the debate CPD for inclusion in the 2016 criteria set by the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD). presidential debates was objective. As reported in the Feb. 2017 issue of LP News, Judge Tan- ya Chutkan had rebuked the FEC for its testimony in January tial debates was objective. during oral argument in the case. The FEC had attempted to The order directed the FEC to reconsider the plaintiffs’ justify its dismissal of a complaint issued by Level the Playing allegations against the CPD within 30 days, and to recon- Field (LPF) against the CPD, ignoring mounds of evidence sider LPF’s request for a rule-making within 60 days. presented by LPF’s lead attorney, Alexandra Shapiro. Later that week, the FEC asked Judge Chutkan to recon- Consistent with her comments in court, Chutkan’s order sider her order, and asked for more time to respond. states that the FEC acted “arbitrarily, capriciously, and con- Four days later, the judge granted the FEC an additional L–R: Co-chairmen Mike McCurry and Frank Fahrenkopf trary to law,” with respect to its conclusion that the polling 30 days. She noted in her response that the FEC had failed of the Commission on Presidential Debates criterion set by the CPD for inclusion in the 2016 presiden- continued on page 11... Page 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017

Chair’s Corner Donor Appreciation

The health of our freedoms One ananymous individual became The following individuals became Beacon of Liberty contributors: by Nicholas Sarwark, Chair works, because it was Obama’s a Beacon of Liberty contributor. signature achievement as any of you may know that our family has a president. The Republicans The following individuals became Lifetime Founder contributors: used car dealership in Phoenix. As a small- will make superficial changes David Pratt Demarest John Marsh Tia Smith business owner, I can tell you that things like to how it works, but keep most Tom Dunbar Dean Musgrave Jose Tumang healthM insurance are not just theoretical issues, but day- Don Hochstatter James Presley Kyle Varner of the requirements of the law Roland Maddrey to-day issues for how we run our business. that are already in place. Arizona is a tough place to buy health insurance as a Only the Libertarian Party The Libertarian Party grants lifetime membership to small business. When you visit the SHOP Marketplace supports getting to the root (the Affordable Care Act’s provision for small business- individuals who contribute at least $1,500 during any of the problem. We recog- 12-month period. Call 202-333-0008 to find out how es to buy health insurance for their employees), you nize that this overly regulated Nicholas Sarwark can choose which company you would like, to provide market for health insurance much more you would need to donate to become a your health insurance coverage. forces you to buy coverage you don’t need or don’t Lifetime Member today. My choices were: Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and…noth- want. We understand that a system that offers you ben- ing else. Every other insurance company had pulled out efits without requiring that providers compete will be of the Arizona marketplace for small businesses. unsustainable. David F. Nolan Memorial Building Fund After “choosing” Blue Cross and setting up a plan Many people were attracted to the Gary Johnson for where our company would pay 50 percent of the premi- President campaign because he brought his experience Liberty Room Donor: ums for our employees who wanted to sign up, we had as a two-term governor to the issues while singing the our health insurance. The insurance premium for me, virtues of a free market in medicine. “We would have Michael Chastain my wife, and our three children comes to about $1,400 Stitches R Us,” he chimed, illustrating how we can Uber- per month—$300 more than the mortgage on our house. ize medicine by getting the government out of the way. Founders of Liberty: And it still bears a $2,000 individual deductible before When neither of the dominant parties is willing to ac- John R. Kuhn, Esq. Geoffrey & Nancy Neale the insurance starts covering things. That’s the “silver” knowledge how broken our health insurance system is, plan, the middle option under the Affordable Care Act. the Libertarian Party has the opportunity to take up the Hero of Liberty: Clearly, this system of requiring individuals to buy mantle of being the adults in the room—the ones who terrible health insurance, or pay a penalty to the gov- understand policy and its consequences, and who can ex- Charles Davol Test ernment if we are unable or unwilling to support it, is plain how a Libertarian solution would work better. Benefactors of Liberty: unsustainable. These kinds of opportunities are going to present It’s hard to imagine a plan worse than the Affordable themselves more and more often as we approach the David Aschmann Dr. Stan L. O’Dell, Ph.D. Care Act, but the Republicans, with their plan for “replace- midterm elections in 2018. We need to make sure the Anina and Ben Bachrach Mel Pinney ment,” have managed to create one. It requires that you Libertarian Party has clear, sensible, and articulate po- Ms. Alicia Garcia Clark Mr. Richard S. Roth pay the penalty for noncoverage directly to the insurance sitions, to show people that we understand their dif- Daniel Fylstra John R. Sparduto companies, rather than to the IRS. At least that “corporate ficulties and have real solutions. John Kannarr Dr. Curry B. Taylor welfare” is more aboveboard under the Republican plan. Yours in liberty, Dave Kaufman Lorence & Nancy Wenke The Democrats will complain and push back against Nicholas J. Sarwark Mr. David R. Mason Mr. Christopher Witzky the Republicans’ altering how the Affordable Care Act continued on page 3...

Libertarian Party News www.LP.org (ISSN 8755-139X) is the official LP News newspaper of the Send news, articles, Libertarian Party® of the United essays, or photographs: States. Opinions and articles The Libertarian Party (LP) and its state affiliates work to advance the right E-mail: [email protected] of individuals to be free, so long as they do not forcibly interfere with the published in this newspaper do not Address changes: equal rights of others. The party runs candidates for public office, elects necessarily represent official party Libertarians, supports and opposes ballot measures, lobbies, and takes Phone: (202) 333-0008 positions unless so indicated. positions on public policy aimed at removing, reducing, and nullifying government E-mail: [email protected] laws, regulations, prohibitions, taxes, spending, debt, and foreign interventions. Postal mail: National Chair: Nicholas Sarwark 1444 Duke St. E-mail: [email protected] Alexandria, VA 22314 Editor: Carla Howell Assistant Editor: Elizabeth C. Brierly Phone: (202) 333-0008 CONTRIBUTORS: Nicholas Sarwark, Sandra Kallander, Greta Langhenry, Laura Ann Valle, Patrick McKnight, Caryn Ann Harlos, Jess Mears, state affiliates Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 3 Rohrman wins LP nomination for New Jersey governor n front of a sold-out LP state convention This includes reforming prevailing-wage Rohrman: “I’ll use mass held at Rutgers University in March, the laws to make public services competitive New Jersey Libertarian Party nomi- again, and abolishing “double-dipping,” pardon powers to create natedI U.S. Marines veteran Peter Rohrman whereby government employees can draw a de facto constitutional for governor. The party nominated Karese two pensions at a time, or both a salary carry state and to shed the Laguerre for lieutenant governor. and a pension. many restrictive gun laws Rohrman’s proposes school choice, le- “There’s no reason a project should cost galizing marijuana, and ending corporate more simply because taxpayers are footing we have on the books.” welfare. He aims to eliminate most forms of the bill,” he said. “The people of New Jersey taxation within the state, and give citizens are not an ATM for powerful special inter- ecutive authority to end the war on people the option of defunding government pro- ests.” who use marijuana. Incarceration for pos- grams they dislike. On the right to self-defense, Rohrman session of a plant is beyond cruel and un- Rohrman first gained attention with says, “I’m not interested in working with usual.” strong campaigns in 2015 and 2016 for legislators on this issue. I’ll use mass par- “The governorship of New Jersey is one of the most powerful in the union,” Bergen County freeholder. New Jersey has Peter Rohrman, Libertarian candidate don powers to create a de facto constitu- 21 counties, each of which is governed by a for governor of New Jersey tional carry state and to shed the many Rohrman said. “If elected, we’ll use that power to reverse governmental tyranny board of freeholders. Bergen is part of the schools. He aims to eliminate “last in, first restrictive gun laws we have on the books.” New York City metropolitan area. Rohrman opposes the “war on drugs.” that the state is so famous for. Mass par- out” employment that forces schools to dons are on the way!” • “I believe in maximizing personal free- fire outstanding new teachers first, and to As a first step in ending this “senseless Campaign website: Pete4NJ.com dom,” he said. “I cherish the Constitution expand school choice, for greater competi- failure of a jobs program,” he will take ad- and every one of the rights afforded to us in tion and parental choice. vantage of the national trend to legalize Campaign Facebook page: Facebook.com/ the Bill of Rights.” He calls for eliminating the state’s gas cannabis. He said, “If legislators don’t act RohrmanForGovernor Rohrman advocates for competition in tax and cutting government spending. quickly, I’ll take the initiative, and use ex- Wicks running in U.S. House special Donor Appreciation election to tackle government debt ...continued from page 2 David F. Nolan Memorial Building Fund by Greta Langhenry federal regulations “so we can run a business without Defender of Liberty: t a state convention on March 11, the Montana LP nominated Mark Wicks to run in the May wondering what law we are Mark Cenkus David Neumann James Presley 25 special election for the U.S. House seat va- breaking,” and protect citi- C. E. Dekko Pamela Potter John C. Sproul catedA by former Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke, zens’ privacy and personal Keith Laube who was confirmed as Secretary of the Interior. information by “ending all Friend of Liberty: Wicks’s opponents are Republican Greg Gianforte, unconstitutional spying Virginia Paulsen Christopher Richter Dan Waylonis and data collection without Stephen Pratt Gary Rogers Jan-Mark Zentler who made an unsuccessful bid for governor last fall, and Democrat Rob Quist. search warrants.” Advocate of Liberty: A local Montana news channel, KULR8, reported, Wicks says he knows “it’s an uphill battle. [But] I can Eric Blitz Jan-Erik Janson Steven Opat “Voter turnout is expected to be lower than ever be- Mark Wicks, William Bouma James Jones David Palmer see where I have a lot of ad- LIbertarian candidate for Anthony Crikis Theodore Kaufhold Ken Puchlik fore, making the results of the election highly unpre- vantages. My party is not U.S. House (Montana) Kim Curry Kent Lawrence Ronald Rollins dictable.” David Pratt Demarest Andrew LeCureaux Brian Sharples Wicks, a cattle rancher, writer, and father of four fighting with anybody. The Jeffery Doty Jim Liljeberg Michael Sheffield from Inverness, is especially concerned with the na- other parties are fighting back and forth.” John Eige Conrad Long Carl Singmaster Noting that his home state of Montana elected Jean- Chad Fisher Franz Meier Frederick Snoy tional debt . Kimberly Fisher Robert Meigs Lowri Sprung “My biggest goal,” he says, “is to work towards bal- nette Rankin in 1916, the first woman to ever hold na- Leburn Flurry Warren Miller George Thomas ancing the budget, and then start paying down the tional office in the United States, Wicks sees the poten- David Gay Gregory Mitchell Don Webb tial for Montanans to “break that glass ceiling [again] Lorenzo Gaztanaga Roger Nelson Everest Whited debt. We spend $14,000 per second just paying the in- Joseph Gensheimer Mary O'Connor Kermit Wilkison terest on the debt!” and send the first Libertarian to Washington.” David Hoesly Scott Olson Alton Yee “Nobody is saying ‘no,’ ” he continues. “They [ma- Wicks has drawn the attention of state, local, and Plaques recognizing our top donors are now on display jor party politicians] get a dollar and spend it twice. even national press, with coverage of his candidacy at the Libertarian National Committee building in There needs to be somebody who can stand up without running in the Washington Times, U.S. News and World Alexandria, Va. To have your name appear on a plaque, strings attached and say what needs to be said.” Report, Helena Independent Record, KRTV, and other or if you’d just like to help pay off the mortgage, mail in statewide media. • your donation or visit LP.org. He also aims to phase out the Department of Edu- cation to “turn our teachers loose and let them teach Campaign Facebook page: Contribute today: LP.org/office-fund without the federal government” on their backs, reduce Facebook.com/Mark-Wicks-1070955643027894 Page 4 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017 Quiz, 2016 presidential campaign lead to Hurst’s run for Virginia Delegate by Greta Langhenry a Libertarian, and you don’t even know it.” printed out the official party platform. “I erry Hurst, a veteran navy journalist, Unfamiliar with the Libertarian Party, had two highlighters: a pink one for what I is running for the Virginia House of Hurst was curious when his friend gave him didn’t agree with 100 percent, and a yellow Delegates in District 89, a seat that a copy of the World’s Smallest Political Quiz, one for what I did,” explains Hurst. By the TDemocrats have held since the Civil War. “and sure enough, there I was, right smack- end of the platform, he had uncapped the Republicans rarely bother to run in the dis- dab in the middle of the Libertarian quad- pink highlighter only once. trict, which covers the city of Norfolk. rant,” he says. “That’s when I decided to support the Last year, during the presidential election Hurst didn’t think about the quiz again, Libertarians in the election, and [soon after cycle, Hurst started to investigate the field or the Libertarians, until the 2016 presiden- that] when I saw a Facebook ad for a Gary of candidates. Disappointed with what he tial election ramped up. Johnson money bomb, I donated $15.” found from the two old parties, he thought “I thought back to that discussion,” he He decided that if he was going to do- back to a conversation he had had nearly a recalls. nate his hard-earned money to a political decade ago. He took to the Internet to do some re- candidate, he “should be a card-carrying “It was 2007 or 2008. Obama was run- search. “I googled ‘Libertarian,’ ” he says, member” of his party. ning for the first time. A family friend and and wound up on a page detailing Gary He says he joined the Virginia Liber- I were at work when he asked me, ‘What Johnson’s and Bill Weld’s Libertarian cam- tarian Party and the national LP the same do you believe in? Where do you stand?” paign. “I read their platform, and I agreed day. Since then, he has attended fairs and remembers Hurst. “So I told him.” with so much of it,” he says, that he “want- conventions, meetings and panels. The man listened carefully, and at the ed to know more.” “Have you been to the national head- Terry Hurst, Libertarian candidate for Virginia So he went to the LP’s website and end of their discussion told Hurst, “You’re state delegate, District 89 continued on page 7... Young Libertarian Party leaders, Part 1 by Laura Ann Valle tin Petersen in Texas and Tennessee. Deltz has been in- ust talk to a few of the emerging youth leaders in strumental in helping to build support for LP Texas Lob- the Libertarian movement, and you will find some by Day, planned for March 24. He has been serving as the of the most energetic, passionate, and talented young LP Texas political director since Dec. 2016. J He continues to write for Libertarian publications, people of their generation. And they are helping to grow the Libertarian Party from the grass roots, up. Here’s a serving as an associate editor for both the Libertarian sampling. Republic and Liberty Viral. Grant does all this while completing his senior year in high school and attend- Kody Fairfield ing University Interscholastic League (UIL) competi- Since the 2016 election season, 26-year-old Kody Fair- tions in Current Issues and Events. He plans to attend field has remained active with the LP affiliate in Orange Texas Tech University in the fall, majoring in Political County, Calif. Last summer, he helped to nearly triple the Science. group’s meeting attendance and has revamped its social Matthew Geiger media presence. A native of Yorbalinda, a small community east of One wonders when it is that 15-year-old Matthew Gei- Anaheim and south of Los Angeles, Fairfield said that he ger, a sophomore at South Carroll High School — surely was appalled to discover that his congressional represen- one of the youngest and most passionate members of the tative, Republican incumbent Ed Royce, has had no chal- LP — finds time to sleep. lengers in the primaries since his election in 1993. This is Geiger founded the Carroll County Libertarian Com- one of the reasons Fairfield got more involved in politics. mittee (CCLC) in July 2016 and is currently the chair- When he isn’t playing baseball or managing a local man, supporting Libertarians running for local, county, Matthew Geiger, chairman of the Carol County Libertarian Party cross-fit facility, he spends his free time writing articles and statewide office. Under his leadership, the committee for the Libertarian Republic, where he serves as Editor in has seen steady growth in attendance and membership. sala, a man from his hometown of Mount Airy, who has Chief. He was formerly a member of the Republican Lib- He also founded the Libertarian Youth Caucus at both the been fighting the town council for permission to run his erty Caucus and has been working to bring more of his state level and at his high school. The latter has more than firearms restoration business out of his home. There have fellow disaffected Republicans over to the LP. 35 student members and has raised more than $1,000 in been over 10,000 views of his Facebook live story cover- online donations in just one month. ing a March 6 hearing, where Geiger spoke as the CCLC Grant Deltz Geiger used his understanding of social media mar- chair. The town council again voted to deny Wonsala a At age 17, Texas Libertarian Grant Deltz seized the oppor- keting and algorithms to increase the engagement and business permit, but he is planning to appeal. tunity to join the Ohio delegation at the 2016 Libertarian reach of the CCLC’s Facebook page and the national LP’s Matthew’s ability to speak eloquently about freedom Nominating Convention when they needed additional Instagram page. He is also the social media coordinator and to garner attention and support is admirable and in- members. After the excitement in Orlando, he became at the Stonegait Institute and assists with running its pod- spiring to many. On top of all this, he plays basketball and Digital Events intern for the Johnson–Weld campaign. casts and live-stream videos. football, and volunteers in the summer as a swim coach Prior to that, he was a campaign coordinator for Aus- Most recently, Geiger has been helping Michael Won- for local children. • Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 5 Backus wins seat on city council; helps recruit Sen. Ebke to LP by Greta Langhenry wants to “keep it to the basics.” widely known. Sen. Ebke hen Ben Backus first ran for city council in “Roads, utilities, and safety,” are what the people are was a registered Republi- Gering, Nebraska in 2012, he lost by just 40 concerned about, he explains. “People want to be able to can voter, but participat- votes. get from home to work and back again; they want the wa- ed in many “libertarian” WDisappointed but undeterred, he ran for Nebraska Sec- ter to be clean and their toilets to work; and they want circles. She helped to start retary of State in 2014. He lost to the Republican incum- to feel safe in their neighborhoods. If we can take care of the Republican Liberty bent, John A. Gale, but still managed to garner an impres- those three things, businesses and private individuals will Caucus (RLC) in Nebras- sive 24.8 percent of the statewide vote. take care of the rest.” ka, and even serves as its Backus says he “mainly got into running for office to He admits he follows his state legislature obsessively. Last chair. help the Libertarian Party with ballot access efforts,” but year, he noticed something unusual: State Sen. Laura Ebke. But, as Ebke puts it, then saw that being in the race offered a “good way to give Nebraska has a nonpartisan legislature, but the politi- “the letter behind some- the Libertarian platform an audience.” cal affiliation of candidates and those in office are often one’s name doesn’t really In 2016, he ran again for city council. This time, he matter; you have to look won. “People want [roads], water to be clean... at what people really say His victory last year was admittedly “anticlimactic” (his and to feel safe in their neighborhoods. and do.” Backus had looked at opponent dropped out of the race before Election Day), but If we can take care of the those things, Ben Backus, Gering City, the win was still sweet for this Libertarian father of two. what Ebke had said dur- Nebraska Councilmember Now serving as one of two representatives from Ward 3 businesses and private individuals will ing her time in the legisla- on the Gering City Council, he attends biweekly meetings. take care of the rest.” –Ben Backus ture, and even more important, he knew what her voting When it comes to government regulation, Backus record looked like. continued on page 7... Dyer defects to LP ...continued from page 1 An Interview with Rep. Caleb Dyer LP News: What do you see as the biggest opportunity for you LP News: Do you plan to help recruit Libertarians to run or send their children to alternative schools; to help move government policy in a Libertarian direction? for office in N.H., or to campaign on their behalf? • seeks to cut government spending, as well as Dyer: I think that will be through my assignment to the Dyer: I will be extremely active in recruiting Libertarian limit tax revenues, to provide for only essential House Environment and Agriculture Committee. While candidates across the state. My goal is to run a full slate services; this committee doesn’t receive very many bills, there are of Libertarian candidates in my home district of Hills- • supports a woman’s right to choose and opposes several bills which have very big implications for the state. borough 37. Additionally, I will be very active in promot- public funding for abortion clinics; New Hampshire farmers have been crippled by federal ing the campaigns of our candidates for federal offices, • supports the decriminalization of cannabis with regulatory policy which favors much larger farming op- such as Justin O’Donnell, and our likely gubernatorial the eventual goal of legalization without taxa- erations. Ultimately, these policies act as barriers to entry candidate, Jilletta Jarvis. tion; and for small, local, family farms LP News: Do you plan to run • favors any way that the state can resist federal in our state, and we can do “New Hampshire farmers have regulation, oversight, or control. for re-election when your some work to mitigate the been crippled by federal regulatory term is up? effects of these regulations. policy which favors much larger “Caleb Dyer is not a Libertarian in Dyer: Absolutely! When I One such avenue that will farming operations. Ultimately, name only,” said LNC Vice Chair, save many farms in New switched parties, I knew that these policies act as barriers to entry my re-election campaign Arvin Vohra, who attended the Hampshire’s north country is the cultivation of industri- for small, local, family farms.” was going to be an uphill press conference. “This is a real, al hemp. In the Environment battle, but it is nothing I am hard-core voluntarist.” and Agriculture Committee, not prepared for. This next H.B. 151, relative to decriminalization of industrial hemp, time around, I’m going to have to be even more aggres- made it out of committee with an 18–0 unanimous Ought sive reaching my constituents than I was last cycle. I “Caleb Dyer is not a Libertarian in name only,” said to Pass recommendation and is now in the senate. hope to be the first candidate in over two decades to win LNC Vice Chair, Arvin Vohra, who attended the press re-election as a Libertarian. LP News: Do you work with other N.H. groups or parties, conference. “This is a real, hard-core voluntarist.” or individuals therein, on shared goals? LP News: Which, if any, of the 15 pledges that Libertarian Vohra notes that Dyer will be encouraging other candidates for state office made in 2016 would you be will- Libertarians to run for office. Dyer: So far I have found allies mostly in the House Republi- ing to make as an elected official? can Caucus, simply because I am formerly a member of this Vohra asks all Libertarians to thank Caleb Dyer Dyer: I will absolutely take any and all relevant pledges for his bravery in making the switch by following caucus and already have strong relationships with many of its libertarian-leaning members. However, I have also come in my state. Obviously we have neither an income tax his example and declaring their candidacy for public nor a sales tax in New Hampshire, so I can’t exactly fight office. to find Rep. William Pearson (D–Keene) to be a strong ally in the fight to loosen ballot-access laws. In addition, I plan to to eliminate them, but I’ll certainly resist them as best I “If you don’t get elected, you’ll help by putting Lib- can. I’m going to have to read the entirety of each pledge ertarian ideas out there.” work with Amanda Bouldin (D–Manchester) and Elizabeth Edwards-Appell (D–Manchester) on the decriminalization before I decide which ones I will take as a candidate for At the age of 20, Dyer is the youngest member of re-election. • the New Hampshire legislature. • of prostitution, in the second year of the session. Page 6 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017 Six Libertarians on the ballot in McLean County, Illinois by Greta Langhenry The number one objection Morris ennett Morris, chair of the McLean County LP in cen- hears from Libertarians hesitant tral Illinois, had wanted more Libertarian candidates to run for office is “I don’t know to run for office. This spring, he got what he wanted. BThree Libertarian candidates, Christopher McDermott, enough about the township.” He Alex Nigro, and Steve Suess, are all running for Normal tells them, “I would rather have Township Board of Trustees. They’re on the ballot along with someone in office who makes logical, eight other candidates from the two major parties, all vying reasonable decisions, than someone to fill the four seats on this partisan board. who applauds taxation and enjoys “Historically, the Republicans run unopposed almost all of the time,” Morris beams. “This time, we put a slate to- spending other people’s money.” gether, and then the Democrats did, too, so we finally have cause “in four years, we could run a full slate of LP candidates a contested race.” for Normal Township trustees, clerk, highway commissioner, Three other Libertarians are running in nonpartisan races, tax assessor, and supervisor with next to no [petition] signa- including Morris, who is seeking a six-year term as a trustee Bennett Morris, chair of the McLean County LP tures required. We’d just have to get the same small numbers to the Heartland Community College board (district 540). the Republicans and the Democrats have to get.” Charles Sila is running to retain his spot for a six-year third-highest property taxes in the country,” Morris is hoping Morris is dedicated to securing ballot access for Libertar- term as a trustee to the Normal Public Library board. Sol that Libertarian principles will have the chance to flourish, ians, which is desperately needed in Illinois. Roberts-Lieb is running for school board. and make a difference for the people who live there. The state has more levels of government than any in the “The partisan race is the big one,” he explains. “If one of “Once people start to see Libertarians on the ballot, hope- country: state level offices, county offices, city offices,- town our candidates can get 5 percent of the vote in that one, we fully they’ll be more comfortable with the idea of libertarian ships, towns, school board districts, water districts, park dis- will be considered an ‘established party’ in Normal Township.” principles,” he explains. “Or at least they’ll look into the party.” tricts, fire protection districts, and more. This classification is especially significant, he notes,- be Morris says the number one objection he hears from Lib- “We have so many levels of government, all of which ertarians who are hesitant to run for office is: “I don’t know “We have so many levels of can raise your taxes — and that’s exactly what most of enough about the township.” government, all of which can raise them are doing.” says Morris. “Most residents have no idea In response he tells them, “I would rather have some- your taxes — and that’s exactly what that, in Illinois, the Community College Board of Trustees one in office who makes logical, reasonable decisions than most of them are doing.” can raise your property taxes.” someone who applauds taxation and enjoys spending other In a state that’s “going bankrupt while maintaining the people’s money.” •

LP Hawaii chair fights to decrim. adult prostitution Want to hear what racy Ryan, chair of the Hawaii LP, supports nor opposes it. Libertarians running for has been working for years to re- Under the bill, people who manage office promise to do if elected? peal the state’s laws against prosti- adult consensual sex workers without Ttution. She drafted House Bill 1533 to de- abusing them would be allowed to work criminalize adult consensual prostitution, legally. Those who manage minors or who Tune in to the LP podcast: and has had it introduced into the ongoing abuse sex workers would remain subject to session of Hawaii’s legislature. felonies. H.B. 1533 would retain the legal viola- Ryan has secured the tion for minors who, themselves, do sex LP Hawaii Chair Tracy Ryan being backing of a coalition of work. They would remain under the juris- diction of the Family Court. interviewed on KHON 2 TV. local advocates, including The bill is getting publicity. Ryan has going to tell? You can’t go to the police. the Hawaii Amnesty been interviewed by all the major TV sta- [Prostitutes] should have the same rights International chapter. tions in Honolulu, including KITV, Hawaii to their health and safety protection as Or . . . News Now, and KHON 2 TV. anybody else.” Listen at your convenience. Ryan told KITV, “Say you’re a pros- Honolulu City Prosecutor Keith Ryan has secured the backing of a coali- ititute and you have what’s called a 'bad Kaneshiro has objections to the bill. All shows are archived at: tion of local advocates, including the Ha- date’... Someone attacks you...Who are you Ryan wants to discuss it with him and waii Amnesty International chapter, gay work through objections. She requested www.VoiceAmerica.com/ rights leaders, local sex workers, and Kim- “[Prostitutes] should a meeting with him, and at press time is show/2300/libertarians berlee Cline of the Sex Workers’ Outreach have the same rights to waiting for his office to schedule it. -working-for-you Project. Cline went to Hawaii for ten days their health and safety Most of the bill’s mounting opposition to educate the public and the legislature, protection as anybody is coming from what Ryan describes as and to rally support. “moralists, either the traditional religious Tuesdays House Speaker Joe Souki introduced else.” type or radical feminists.” the bill as a “courtesy,” although he neither P.M. ...continued on page 16 8 ET Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 7 Libertarians serving on Alaska state commission by Carla Howell fy for the APOC appointments, the second- and third-place by the conduct of his fellow ibertarians Rob Clift and Adam Schwemley are ex- winners — Republicans and Libertarians — each qualified commission members. pected to be confirmed this spring to serve on the their parties for two seats on the commission. “From what I’ve seen, they’re interested in being Alaska Public Offices Commission (APOC). They Schwemley: “I’m looking forward Lare among only a handful of Libertarians who will have fair,” he said. “They seem served in a statewide office in the party’s history. to being one of the few Libertarians to be acting for the benefit Alaska Libertarians won two seats on the commission, serving in a statewide capacity of the public, rather than which regulates campaigning and lobbying activities, be- actively promoting libertarian ideals.” their parties.” cause of the outcome of the 2014 governor’s race. Libertar- Clift notes that their ian Carolyn “Care” Clift and her running mate Andrew C. hands are tied by the stat- Lee placed third in the race, with 3.2 percent of the vote, “I’m looking forward to serving Alaska as a Libertar- ute governing campaign- which also won party sta- ian, as well as being one of the few serving in a statewide ing and lobbying, but that capacity who will be actively promoting libertarian ide- they have broad latitude tus for the Alaska LP. Rob Clift, Libertarian nominee State law stipulates that als,” said Schwemley. “Libertarians, in my experience, in hearing cases that come for Alaska Public Offices the five-member APOC have been big on government transparency, and I’m excit- before the commission. Commission include two members of ed to be appointed to a position that oversees the finances Any decisions they make each of the two parties that of elected officials and lobbyists.” will stand, unless they’re appealed in court. win the most votes in the In April 2015, Mark Fish was the first Libertarian appoint- The commission also issues advisory opinions on how last race for governor. An ed to the APOC after the 2014 election. After serving for two to interpret the statute, and has opportunities to suggest independent ticket, con- years, he resigned his post, which left it open for another Lib- legislation. sisting of an odd match-up ertarian to fill. Clift will serve out the remaining three years “I guarantee that if I have an opportunity to push some of a former Democrat and of Fish’s term. Schwemley will serve a full five-year term. libertarian legislation, I’m going to take it,” Clift said. • “We have the opportunity to put our ideas on the table, a former Republican, won Clift: “I guarantee that if I have an the gubernatorial race. But and to be seen by our opposition as equal players who are Adam Schwemley, Libertarian because only candidates of rational and capable,” said Clift. opportunity to push some libertarian nominee for Alaska Public political parties may quali- As he awaited confirmation by the legislature, Clift -at legislation, I’m going to take it.” Offices Commission tended an APOC meeting on Feb. 22. He was encouraged

Backus wins seat At the convention, Backus brought up Hurst for Va. Delegate paign made me realize that there are a lot ...continued from page 5 the subject. “Ben planted a seed,” Ebke ...continued from page 4 of Americans that think like I do. Their campaign woke me up.” “She wasn’t just libertarian-leaning. She said, and the invitation and “warm wel- quarters?” he asks this reporter, the excite- come” of the Nebraska LP went a long way. He continues, “I started to think, ‘How was a libertarian,” Backus recalls. ment in his voice palpable. many others are out there that are ready to So Backus e-mailed Ebke several times. “Ben planted a seed,” Ebke I told him I haven’t. “Oh, you should!” wake up?’ And then [Johnson] got over 4 He saw which bills she had introduced, said, and the invitation he exclaims, telling me another story, this million votes. The Libertarians are not the and even offered to aid her with her ef- one about the night he attended a party and “warm welcome” of ‘lunatic fringe’ anymore.” forts to call for a Convention of States. He there and met many of the national LP staff Undaunted by the woman in his district helped to set up a meeting in his area for the Nebraska LP went a members, including Political Director Car- who told him he “probably” had her vote, constituents interested in her efforts, and long way. la Howell. “We played ‘Who’s Driving,’ ” he though she wished he were a Democrat so “it went well,” he said. says. “It was great!” that he’d “have a chance to win,” Hurst is But their collaboration didn’t stop there. Both Backus and Ebke were fully aware “We have to help the moving, full steam ahead, toward the No- The Libertarian Party of Nebraska invit- vember election. ed Sen. Ebke to speak at their state conven- of the danger to her chances of re-election public understand who we tion, even though she was still a registered a party switch could pose, and “Ben said to “I know there are more me, ‘I know you might not want to [switch are in a moment, or we Republican. Ebke accepted. She admits she lose them.” people like me out there “wasn’t too nervous” to speak at the con- parties] for political reasons, but we would vention, since she already knew many of welcome you,’ ” remembers Ebke. [who don’t know they’re the people who would be there, through Now, Nebraska State Sen. Laura Ebke is “We have to help the public understand libertarians yet].” her work with the RLC. “It was nice to talk a Libertarian. who we are in a moment, or we lose them,” Last May, six weeks after addressing the about liberty openly,” she said. he explains, describing the usefulness of “I know there are more people like me Already increasingly unhappy with the LP state convention, she formally capital- the game Howell played with him. ized the “L.” out there [who don’t know they’re libertar- direction the GOP was heading in the presi- Increasing government transparency ians yet],” says Hurst. His goal is to help the When asked whether he thought there in Norfolk is a top priority for Hurst, who dential primaries, and disturbed by “a series Libertarian Party reach them. • of things” on the state and national level, were other Republicans who might be ready also wants to work toward ending the drug Campaign website: TerryHurst.com as she puts it, Ebke had been considering to make the switch, Backus replied quickly, war and restoring the civil rights of non- switching her party affiliation for some time. “I don’t know. There aren’t too many Laura violent felons. Campaign Facebook page: Ebkes.” • “Gary Johnson’s and Bill Weld’s cam- Facebook.com/ElectTerryHurst Page 8 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017

Libertarian National Committee 2016 Annual Report Dear Libertarian, The Libertarian Party’s revenue jumped from $1.1 million in 2015 to $2.6 million in 2016, thanks to donors like you. That’s remarkable growth, but it’s our 595 candidates we got onto the ballot who ran for president, congress, state and local offices, that got the party the public- ity we need to impact public policy. Because the Libertarian Party collected enough signatures to get our ticket for president on the ballot in all 50 states, we attracted two former governors, Gary Johnson and Bill Weld, and the media took us seriously. We got tons of free publicity on TV, the radio, in print, and the Internet. That media would have cost tens, if not hundreds of mil- lions of dollars, if we had paid for that publicity with advertising. I want to thank our 595 candidates for taking time away from their families to run for office. I especially want to thank Gary Johnson and his 35,000 team, some of whom worked for five years leading up to the 2016 election. 30,000 Dues-paying Membership

I want to thank our national, state, and county affiliate leadership, 25,000 and the thousands of other volunteers who spent countless hours work- ing for the Libertarian Party and its candidates in 2016. 20,000 I want to thank our incredibly productive staff. Twelve individuals 15,000

serving 50 state parties, 595 candidates, 20,406 members, maintaining 10,000 our websites and speaking to the national press. We do all of that while trying to accommodate the differences of opinions our Libertarians 5,000 have on how radical or mainstream our tone should be. I want to thank you for being a Libertarian. And I want to thank you 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 again for making our work possible by donating to the Libertarian Party. Simply calling yourself a Libertarian is a bold statement. Being a Libertarian shows courage and leadership—the kind of leadership $3,600,000 America needs. $3,000,000 Revenue The Libertarian Party stands for free markets, civil liberties, and peace. Our work is important. We don’t win every battle, but we always $2,400,000 help to change minds and work to move policy toward liberty. $1,800,000 We have a lot to be proud of and will continue to build and take this party to new heights. $1,200,000 Wes Benedict $600,000 Executive Director 1997 1998 1999 2011 2012 2013 2015 2016 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2008 2009 2010 2014 2007

Branding and LP Store In 2015, the LNC decided to adopt a new logo, with new colors and new branding. Consistent and pol- ished branding is an essential part of building our party and our outreach both internally and externally. Over the past year, staff has been rolling out all sorts of new items, including shirts, bumper stickers, brochures, rack cards, lapel stickers, and yard signs. Some of these were broadly “Libertarian” and others specifically promoted our presidential nominee. Demand was high, and LP Store (LPStore.org) did booming business in 2016. We upgraded the LP Store website, produced new materials, and used volunteers and temporary staff to fill orders. Branding and promotional revenue reached $316,269 in 2016, which was ten times higher than in any year from 2010 through 2015. • Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 9

Financial Statements 2016 Financial Statements Balance Sheet 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016* Total Assets 421,811 454,149 290,870 445,746 1,173,452 1,174,064 1,294,270 Total Liabilities 79,087 42,998 37,515 48,988 573,387 565,754 417,633 Total Net Assets 342,724 411,151 253,355 396,758 600,065 608,310 876,637

Revenue & Expenses

Support and Revenue 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016* Membership Dues 532,494 482,622 458,288 456,081 492,324 368,631 805,821 Donations 240,508 288,594 281,015 180,630 453,272 148,383 678,854 Recurring Gifts 351,243 393,021 331,288 344,601 342,279 323,457 350,931 Board Solicitation Major Gifts 94,388 25,027 1,000 125 42,475 73,400 0 Convention Revenue 170,112 0 185,226 0 114,820 0 291,294 Project Program Revenue 5,000 130,035 -6,321 244,869 72,248 24,206 16,210 Brand & Promo Materials Rev 28,994 0 690 2,450 19,380 30,360 316,269 Ballot Access Donations 32,052 30,188 231,877 61,394 45,954 135,292 149,819 Publications Materials Other 24,427 7,900 1,645 1,000 7,959 13,967 15,186 Other Revenue & Offsets 2,871 1,523 142 23 1 55 607 Total Support and Revenue 1,482,088 1,358,911 1,484,850 1,291,173 1,590,712 1,117,751 2,624,990

Cost of Support and Revenue Fundraising Costs 126,335 147,122 165,265 116,485 125,461 101,756 200,931 Membership Fundraising Costs 121,165 155,965 76,355 101,056 108,366 95,903 129,798 Convention 102,896 0 161,912 0 120,936 0 218,607 Ballot Access Other Project Fundraising 4,283 2,937 16,825 25,589 8,831 22,828 5,830 Building Fundraising Exp 0 0 0 30,527 5,945 81 1,175 Total Cost of Support and Revenue 354,678 306,024 420,357 273,657 369,539 220,568 556,341

Net Support Available for Programs 1,127,410 1,052,887 1,064,493 1,017,516 1,221,173 897,183 2,068,650

Program Expense Administrative Costs 356,133 365,257 362,256 348,712 276,911 250,039 361,626 Compensation 375,988 412,239 399,518 466,240 526,069 411,146 489,582 Affiliate Support 0 3,867 4,816 5,404 4,883 18,737 45,026 Brand & Promo Materials Exp 51,879 5,191 2,748 2,408 12,578 40,796 368,331 Campus Outreach 60 0 0 1,000 0 732 0 Candidate, Campaign & Initiatives 25,048 50,000 4,464 0 289 6,804 36,948 Ballot Access Petitioning Related Exp 128,904 72,452 382,461 16,262 106,696 107,502 393,092 Litigation 0 12,882 23,259 5,904 11,047 1,839 6,841 Media 1,250 0 0 30 119 145 5,367 Member Communication and Materials 34,016 36,992 38,452 24,670 60,395 39,396 81,340 Outreach 8,392 21,285 4,315 6,979 6,098 4,541 6,169 Project Program Other 0 4,294 0 6,785 2,500 7,261 0 Total Program Expense 981,671 984,459 1,222,289 884,394 1,007,585 888,938 1,794,323

Net Operating Surplus (or Deficit) 145,739 68,427 -157,796 133,122 213,588 8,245 274,327

* Unaudited for 2016

4 2016 Financials Page 10 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017 New LNC committee seeks Ballot access update LP by Carla Howell to preserve party cause Johnson and Weld did not appear as Speaks Out Arkansas bill passed to move Libertarians on the ballot. history back deadline for nominating “That is, at best, circular reasoning,” O’Neill wrote. “It would not have been Fill FEC vacancy with a n January, the Libertarian National candidates possible for Gary Johnson and Bill Weld Committee voted to approve the On March 1, Arkansas Governor Asa to run as the candidates of the Libertar- Libertarian formation of an ad hoc Historical Hutchinson signed House Bill no. 1532, ian Party as there was no such party rec- he unexpected resignation of Ann Ravel IPreservation Committee, charged with moving the deadline for a newly qualified ognized by the state of Ohio. Political from the Federal Election Commission preserving material created by the party political party to choose its candidates parties have to start somewhere.” (FEC) offers an ideal opportunity for over its history. Caryn Ann Harlos, Joe from November of the year prior to a gen- TPresident Trump to “drain the swamp” by ap- Meanwhile, because the party cannot Buchman, Joe Dehn, Ed Fochler, and eral election, to May of the election year. count on the state’s hostile lawmakers and pointing a Libertarian commissioner. And be- James Gholston currently serve on the For years, the deadline for choosing courts for help, LPO, with assistance from cause he is considering filling the entire com- committee. candidates for a newly qualified party had the national LP, continues to petition for mission with new blood, he could appoint a Harlos, who serves as chair, was in- been in May, but in 2015 the state legisla- ballot access in 2018. Of the 54,965 signa- Libertarian to any of its six seats. spired to form the committee when she ture moved the deadline to November of tures needed, 13,449 had been collected The law requires that no more than three visited the Libertarian Party headquarters the year preceding the election. Despite as of March 16. members of the commission come from the last year and saw the large quantity of his- the early deadline — the earliest in the same political party. Presidents typically appoint torical and educational material, developed nation — the Arkansas LP was still able Oklahoma senate passes key bill members who are Democratic or Republican, or over decades, that is not being put into the to get 24 candidates on the ballot for the On March 14, the Oklahoma senate closely aligned with one of those two old parties. hands of state affiliates and activists. 2016 election. passed S.B. 350 by 41 to 3. It changes how But the country consists of more than just Re- In Sept. 2016, a U.S. District Court a party remains on the ballot, from polling publicans and Democrats. There are many mil- “There are so many judge ruled that the November filing 2.5 percent or more for the office at the top lions of independent voters, and November’s elec- wonderful and eager new deadline was unconstitutional. of the ballot (president or governor), to 2.5 tion saw 4.5 million voters casting their ballots for Libertarians brought into percent or more for any statewide race, in Libertarian candidate Gov. Gary Johnson. These Ohio courts continue to deny LP voters also deserve representation on the FEC. the party by the Johnson either of the last two elections. ballot status It is far easier to receive 2.5 percent of The LP is the nation’s third-largest political campaign, but many of After the Ohio Supreme Court ruled 6–1 the vote for offices such as treasurer or party. Through its strength and popular sup- them are not aware of the against the LP in Fockler v. Husted, which agriculture commissioner than for gover- port, it was able to overcome significant hurdles and place its presidential candidate on the bal- depth of history and ideas would put the LP on the ballot for 2018, nor or president. the party asked for reconsideration. As of lot in all 50 states and D.C. It would be entirely that form our heritage.” March 15, the court has not yet made a Tennessee pursuing Libertarian reasonable and consistent with the law for Presi- —Caryn Ann Harlos ruling. labels on ballot dent Trump to appoint a Libertarian. Shenanigans that involved staffers for LP Tennessee has committed to obtain- Speculation has already begun as to which “There are so many wonderful and Gov. John Kasich knocked LPO’s guberna- ing the Libertarian ballot label for their Libertarians could make President Trump’s eager new Libertarians brought into the torial candidate off the ballot in 2014, ruin- candidates by working three simultane- short list of prospective replacements. One obvi- ous possibility is Richard Winger, the long-time party by the Johnson campaign, but many ing the party’s chance to retain ballot sta- ous avenues to ballot access: a legal op- publisher and editor of Ballot Access News, and of them are not aware of the depth of his- tus. Also that year, the legislature changed tion, a lobbying route, and gathering vol- nationally recognized expert on independent tory and ideas that form our heritage,” the rules to make it very difficult to regain unteer signatures. and alternative-party election issues. Winger said Harlos. “I want to be sure that they party status by petition. As a result, the LPTN placed Gov. Johnson on the bal- would certainly bring a fresh and much-needed have access to these resources, and to re- LPO placed Libertarian presidential nomi- lot as an independent in 2016, and he re- perspective to the FEC. ignite the fire and enthusiasm of seasoned nee Gov. Gary Johnson on the ballot as ceived 2.7 percent of the number of votes A more diverse FEC would likely curb the champions of liberty.” an independent in 2016. He subsequently that had been cast in the last gubernato- self-serving behavior of the Commission on The scope of the committee includes won 3.7 percent of the vote, exceeding the rial election. Based on this result, LPTN Presidential Debates (CPD), which was brought creating an electronic archive of party 3 percent threshold required for party rec- has officially asked the Tennessee Secre- to light recently when a U.S. district court judge records, and maintaining and admin- ognition. tary of State to recognize the LP. ordered the FEC to adequately respond to a istering the party’s online collaborative The state argues that, even though the The party is also lobbying to get H.B. complaint that presented mounds of evidence encyclopedia of party history, LPedia.org, five individuals whose names appeared 662 and S.B. 770 through the legislature, of CPD’s bias in setting criteria for inclusion in which has become stagnant and is being on Johnson’s petition are the same five which would cut to 5,000 (from 33,844) presidential debates. prepared for a re-launch. who filed the lawsuit, Johnson’s vote re- the number of petitioning signatures re- Polls consistently show that a majority of Volunteers are being sought to assist sult doesn’t qualify the LPO to be placed quired to place Libertarian-labeled can- Americans want alternative candidates in- the committee with tasks that include on the ballot. didates on the ballot in 2018. If a Lib- cluded in the debates. Yet the FEC has allowed scanning, electronic organizing and in- The Cleveland Plain Dealer, the state’s ertarian candidate for governor or U.S. the CPD to exclude them in violation of the dexing, and document management. To largest newspaper, sided with the Libertar- Senate polls 2.5 percent that year, the LP FEC’s own regulations. volunteer, contact Caryn Ann Harlos at ians, citing Supreme Court Justice William will remain on the ballot through 2020. Adding a Libertarian to the FEC would [email protected]. Donations O’Neill in his lone dissent. O’Neill wrote In case neither of these efforts suc- begin the process of giving American voters are requested to help fund this project. of the fact that Jon Husted, the Secretary ceeds, LPTN has embarked on a signa- real choice at the polls, so that they—rather To make a donation, visit the website of State and now a candidate for governor, ture drive, with an estimated 4,000 signa- than political insiders—will control the fed- at: TinyURL.com/donate-lp-history • refuses to put the LPO on the ballot be- tures in hand. • eral government’s agenda.• Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 11 LP wins ruling in FEC donation limit challenge Spotlight on Liberty Pledgers arlier this year, U.S. District Court Judge Beryl if it abides by existing FEC rules, which allow individuals Libertarian voices in Tulsa: Howell ruled in favor of the Libertarian Party, say- to donate larger amounts if they are placed in segregated ing that it has standing to challenge an FEC de- bank accounts and used only for particular purposes. Joe and Airyn Cristiano cisionE that forbids it from receiving the full amount of The LNC countered that to allow spending only on a bequest all at once. The case arose out of a $235,575 specified purposes violates the First Amendment speech he Libertarian Party (LP) has grown over the years bequest left to the party by supporter Joseph Shaber, who rights of the party and its supporters. because of devoted members such as Joe and Airyn died in 2014. The LP filed the case, Libertarian National The judge sided with the LNC, denying the FEC’s re- Cristiano of Tulsa, Okla., who have been generous Committee v. FEC, 1:16cv-121, in Jan. 2016. quest for dismissal and allowing the case to proceed to Twith their time, talents, and financial resources. The FEC had asserted that the limit it places on in- the full U.S. Court of Appeals. Joe and Airyn joined the Libertarian Party as mem- dividual donations to a political party (now at $33,900 “It will be difficult for the FEC to show that there is bers in 1996, and now they contribute monthly as Liberty annually) should apply to bequests, thus allowing only any danger of corruption allowing a deceased individual Pledgers. Airyn says the reason she gives monthly is that amounts totaling under this limit to be distributed to the to leave money to a party,” said Richard Winger, publisher she supports Libertarian ideas. Joe added, “I like to put party yearly. of Ballot Access News. • The FEC’s rationale is based on the premise that an in- continued on page 15... dividual who makes a large donation may be able to un- “It will be difficult for the FEC to show duly influence politicians, whom the party helps to elect, that there is any danger of corruption to grant the donor special favors. It is particularly absurd to impose such a limit on a to allow a deceased individual to person who is deceased and therefore incapable of influ- leave money to a party.” ence peddling. –Richard Winger, The FEC argued that the party lacked standing because publisher of Ballot Access News the law allows the party to receive the money all at once

LP wins case against FEC, CPD Curry, but other members of the board, including former ...continued from page 1 Rep. Jane Harman (D–Calif), former Sen. Olympia Snowe to notify respondents, failed to consider evidence, failed to (R–Maine), and former PBS anchor Jim Lehrer.” articulate its legal analysis, and failed to engage in reasoned Recently, the CPD has seen the resignations of former decision-making. Gov. Mitch Daniels, former Secretary of Defense Leon Pa- “The court is perplexed by the FEC’s assertion that it netta, former Princeton University president Shirley Tilgh- needs additional time to review the Plaintiffs’ submissions man , and former CBS anchor Bob Schieffer. given its earlier representations to the court that it had al- “They may have been smart to jump ship, but they are not serving the public interest by remaining silent,” said ready carefully analyzed this evidence before dismissing Airyn and Joe Cristiano Plaintiffs’ administrative complaints. Nevertheless, the McCormick. court will grant the FEC’s request for additional time.” April 3 is the new deadline for the FEC to reconsider the Those frustrated with the two-party bates has been sued in every presidential cycle since it plaintiffs’ allegations against the CPD. domination of America’s election was formed in 1987. Those court challenges, usually cen- tering on opening the process to more candidates, have On March 8, the FEC announced in a press release that process finally have something to it voted on Feb. 22 not to appeal the District Court’s ruling. never gotten anywhere — until now. Those frustrated with For decades, the CPD has managed to keep independent cheer about, thanks to a federal the two-party domination of America’s election process and third-party candidates out of the final, televised, gener- judge's ruling against the FEC. finally have something to cheer about, thanks to a fed- eral judge’s ruling against the Federal Election Commis- al election debates. Their rule for inclusion requires average Reformers hope this decision could support of 15 percent in five polls, of the CPD’s choosing, sion. Reformers hope this decision could result in the next taken just a few weeks before the first debate. result in the next presidential debate presidential debate stage being more crowded — and more independent — than it has been since the 1990s.” Over the past several years, LPF and other groups have stage being more crowded—and asked the CPD to change its rules. The CPD has refused. Libertarian National Committee Chair Nicholas Sar- more independent—than it has been LPF asked the FEC to enforce the law and issue a new wark said, “For decades, the CPD has operated in a man- rule-making on presidential debates. The FEC, reflexively since the 1990s. ner designed to support and perpetuate the two old parties defending the CPD’s actions as it has done for decades, and protect them from any political competition. And for merely batted away LPF’s complaints. For a commission whose mission is to stage public de- decades, the FEC has been complicit by willfully ignoring Although the FEC is plaintiff in this lawsuit, the CPD is bates, the CPD is suspiciously secretive. When the CPD the evidence that the CPD is running an illegal bipartisan the real target. decided to keep its 15 percent rule for the 2016 debates, its campaign commercial. We hope that this ruling will get In its lawsuit, LPF provided copious evidence regarding press release implied that the vote was not unanimous, but the FEC to start following and enforcing the law fairly.” political contributions and other partisan activities by CPD the reasons for dissent were not revealed. “Kudos to Alexandra Shapiro for her skillful presenta- directors, including its current co-chair Frank Fahrenkopf Judge Chutkan’s ruling was covered by Real Clear Poli- tion of the law and the overwhelming evidence that the (formerly chairman of the Republican National Commit- tics, Vice , Court House News, The Hill Talk, PR News- CPD is violating the FEC’s rules,” he said. “And bravo to tee), and recent co-chair Mike McCurry, a Democratic stal- wire, and IVN, which together portrayed the ruling as an Judge Chutkan for seeing the FEC’s ignoring of that law wart who served as press secretary to Bill Clinton. opening for a new kind of election in 2020. and evidence for what it was, and ordering them to go Cara McCormick, CEO of LPF, said, “The federal court Reporter Melissa Cruz wrote in RealClearPolitics, back and do their job.” • decision should embarrass not just Fahrenkopf and Mc- “Except for 2008, the Commission on Presidential De- Parts of this article were provided by Level the Playing Field. Page 12 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017 Libertarian Party pioneers give advice for moving forward

n 2016, the LP reached new heights in media cover- paign, and Ed provided an early endorsement to Gov. age, membership numbers, and vote totals, but these Gary Johnson. Alicia was especially delighted with the were not reaped without many years of continued media coverage of the campaign and with the member- Isowing and cultivation by past leaders and activists like ship growth of the LP. Ed Clark—who ran for President on the Libertarian ticket She advises, “What everyone has to do is to welcome in 1980—and his wife, Alicia Clark, who in 1981, was the new members, let them feel at home, and to have a lot of second woman to be elected LNC Chair. lectures and talks about what the Libertarian Party is re- Ed was first introduced to Libertarianism while seek- ally all about.” ing an alternative to the Republican Party after Richard Ed added that new Libertarians should “get active in Nixon moved the country away from a gold standard and the party, find something of the party’s activities that they imposed wage and price controls. He learned of the Liber- enjoy doing.” tarian Party (LP) through early libertarian magazines, and Ed has mixed feelings about President Trump’s impact friends in New York. Alicia, born in Vera Cruz, Mexico, on the economy. His greatest concern is an increase in the had never belonged to any American political party other national deficit, but feels there is a possibility for deregula- than the Libertarian Party. tion. Ed’s long list of role models within the LP includes Da- “This is a time when many people are not very opti- vid Nolan, its cofounder, John Hospers, the party's first mistic,” he said. “I think the Libertarian movement is presidential nominee, and Roger MacBride, its second. very substantial and will probably enlarge more under the Alicia finds inspiration in each candidate who has run Trump regime and the Trump regime will disappear in for public office as a Libertarian, and for their dedication four years. We have to be patient.” to the LP, looks to them as role models. The Clarks are optimistic about the future of the LP be- “I think the Libertarian movement is cause of the attention received in 2016. Alicia noted that Alicia and Ed Clark very substantial and will probably “We have made progress on an she gave out many of her personal books on libertarian- enlarge more under the Trump ism last year, as many of her friends were seeking an alter- regime.” — Ed Clark intellectual front. In this last election native to the two-party system. we made a big advancement on the When asked for his advice to Libertarian leaders, Ed commented, “We have made progress on an intellectual political front. We have to keep on Alicia agreed with Ed’s prediction that Libertarians front. In this last election, we made a big advancement on pressing and realize it is a difficult task will ascend to the next level. the political front. We have to keep on pressing and realize “I would like to encourage all Libertarians to be pa- that will take a long time.” — Ed Clark it is a difficult task that will take a long time.” tient, to be persistent, and to be consistent,” she said • The Clarks supported the Johnson–Weld 2016 cam- Mom: With me, liberty sticks t seems like the first words uttered into With a renewed faith in American poli- Letters “All politics is...” my ears after exiting the womb were, tics, I was reborn as a Libertarian. Clearly, “express yourself.” From professors to my next step was to sign up for the mailing ...social! woman who, again and again, urged me to Iparents, I was taught to be outspoken. list. find my own views and believe in them. I heard hours upon hours of my fam- You could only imagine the ecstasy and Her calm and collected comeback shocked ily’s views, ranging from social services to excitement I felt when I opened my first me and led me to learn a harsh, yet valu- senatorial privileges, all spoken over the letter from the Libertarian Party and saw, able, lesson. Have you been to low hum of Fox News. to my great surprise, a free bumper sticker! Adults always tell us to get involved, but This conservative environment I was I wasted no time in slapping my when we involve the bumper of our cars, the LP Facebook raised in led me to take great interest in greatest mail-order trophy onto my have we gone too far? government. In my senior year of high Honda Accord. However, my mother page lately? We must respect the opinions of the school, I signed up for AP Government. was not as thrilled as I. Without my youth, if we want the future of America to Our first project was to research different knowledge, she ripped my sticker off be bright. political parties throughout America. When and threw it out. I was furious. To conclude with a happy ending, I got I came across the Libertarian Party in Wiki- When I confronted her about her hypo- another bumper sticker. It is safely and Facebook.com/ pedia, I read it in admiration and awe. critical conduct, all she said was, “I don’t permanently displayed on my laptop. libertarians How had I gone my 17 long years with- want people thinking we are crazy.” —Lillian Whittaker, out discovering a party that so greatly My mother said this. The woman who aligned with my views? wore her political views on her sleeve. The East Lyme High School; Salem, Conn. Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 13

Affiliate Updates

Affiliate news and events are gelaMcArdleForCongress.com provided to LP News by The Southern California Regional Con- Libertarian Party state affiliates. ference was held on Feb. 25 in Santa Fe Springs (Los Angeles County). This was a very successful event featuring LNC Chair Alabama Nicholas Sarwark as guest speaker. Over 2017 Executive Committee elected 75 people attended, quite a few of whom he Libertarian Party of Alabama elect- reporting that it was their first Libertarian Ted Joshua Tuttle as chairman at its event ever. 2017 convention on Sat., Feb. 25 in Hunts- ville. Chairman Tuttle was elected after a close race against Baldwin County Affiliate Colorado Legalizing “ballot selfies” Chair Laura Lane. The convention brought together Lib- win for political free speech may be on ertarian Party members from all over the Athe horizon, with the Colorado legisla- state. Chairman Josh Tuttle made the fol- ture taking up a bill that would remove taking lowing statement regarding the conven- “ballot selfies” from potential criminal pros- tion: ecutions after civil rights suits were filed by “I am deeply humbled to have earned Libertarian Party of Colorado (LPCO) Com- the trust of the party members as chair- munications Director Caryn Ann Harlos and LP Colorado Vice Chair Wayne Harlos, for his state convention man of the Libertarian Party of Alabama. several other plaintiffs, including a Colorado Our focus will be to carry the torch of lib- Springs senator. Laube, stated, “Being part of the primary February 7 marked the first meeting of erty and contest the old parties in upcom- At press time, the LPCO was hard at election will be a big game-changer. Our a campus group of young Libertarians at ing elections.” work preparing for its three-day annual candidates will know they are on the No- Kansas State University in Manhattan, convention, being held on March 24–26 The Libertarian Party of Alabama 2017 vember ballot in early June, rather than Kansas. in Westminster, with plans to feature executive committee members are: late August. This will help organize stron- Two new countywide Libertarian groups speakers such as Sen. Laura Ebke, Aus- ger campaigns and provide voters more had their initial meetings in January. Reno Joshua Tuttle, Chairman tin Petersen, Arvin Vohra, Steve Kerbel, opportunities to understand Libertarian County Libertarians (Hutchinson), led by C.J. Ezell, Vice Chairman Apollo Pazzel, David K. Williams, Ron views.” Kerry Burt, and Butler County Libertarians Nicole Jordan, Secretary Gowins, Sarah Stewart, Corey Falconier, Iowa starts early voting in late Septem- (Butler), led by Robert Mulheran, both met Ross Lowe, Treasurer Marc Montoni, and Caryn Ann Harlos, ber, 40 days before the November election for the first time on Jan. 28. Noah Rhys, Region 1 Representative and a panel discussion on alternative vot- day. A legislative hearing to repeal the death Aaron Watkins, Region 2 Representative ing methods such as approval voting and Iowa voters could start registering Lib- penalty in Kansas was held on Feb. 13. Gage Fenwick, Region 3 Representative ranked-choice voting. ertarian in 2008. Today the number of Long-time death penalty opponent and Zackary Redmond, Region 4 Representative registered Libertarians in Iowa is almost former LPKS Chair Al Terwelp submitted Anthony Peebles, At-Large Member Iowa 10,000. written testimony in favor of the bill on Jim Albea, At-Large Member Political party status granted behalf of the LPKS. Unfortunately, the bill fter submitting an application, the Kansas was tabled for the rest of the session. California Libertarian Party of Iowa was granted Special election for U.S. House, April 11 State Representative Gail Finney was Convention April 28–30 in Santa Clara A the guest of Libertarians of Northeast political party status on March 1, 2017. ith Mike Pompeo having resigned his Kansas (Topeka) at their March 7 meeting. he annual convention of the Libertar- The Libertarian Party of Iowa earned the position as U.S. Representative from W She discussed a bill she introduced which ian Party of California is coming up on ability to apply for political party status the 4th District in Kansas to accept the post T would require conviction of a crime before April 28–30 at the Santa Clara Marriott Ho- when the Johnson–Weld ticket received of CIA Director in the Trump administra- asset forfeiture could take place. tel, 2700 Mission College Blvd., Santa Clara, 3.8 percent of the vote. LP Iowa will main- tion, Governor Brownback has set April 11 The LPKS state convention will be held CA 95054 (near San Jose International Air- tain party status if its gubernatorial or as the date for the special election to fill the on the weekend of April 22 at the Ramada port). This should be the gala event of the presidential candidate continue to receive vacancy. Libertarians from the 4th District Overland Park, 7240 Shawnee Mission season, with great speakers, tasty meals, more than 2 percent of the vote. met on Feb. 11 in Wichita to select a candi- Parkway, Overland Park. party business, and camaraderie with free- “Political party” status is a legal defini- date. Receiving 85 percent of the vote, Chris dom-loving individuals from throughout tion established by Iowa Code which al- Rockhold was nominated to represent the California. For more information and to lows the party certain privileges, including LPKS. Gordon Bakken and John Kostner Kentucky register: Ca.LP.org/convention-2017 the ability to participate in the primary also sought the nomination. Chris is a flight- Convention rescheduled for June 23–25 There is a special election in the 34th election. Iowa voters registered with the simulator instructor and long-time Libertar- 017 is an important year for the Lib- Congressional District on April 4, and Libertarian Party will be able to participate ian. Chris’s campaign manager is Jordan Hus- 2ertarian Party of Kentucky (LPKY). In we have a great candidate named Angela in the 2018 primaries for the first time! ted. The convention was well attended by the February, it was announced that the 2017 McArdle, who is already making waves in Libertarian Party state chair, Keith media. the race. Check out her web site at: An- continued on page 14... Page 14 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org April 2017 Trump speech misses Affiliate Updates LP mark on key policy Speaks Out ...continued from page 13 candidate at its scheduled convention. It is a great time to be a Libertarian in LNC Chair Nicholas Sarwark released the following statement in response to President state convention would be held later than the state of Montana. Much is happening Donald Trump’s Feb. 28 address to Congress: in previous years. This was intended to al- and people are excited. The Montana Lib- low the committees and membership time ertarians are beginning to pick up good n his speech before congress, President Donald Trump offered a mix of good and bad to prepare for the issues that need to be press coverage, and their candidate will be Ipolicy proposals. In the “good” category, Trump: dealt with, to meet certain important chal- included in debates. Television, radio, and • proposed cutting the regulatory might of the FDA so as to cut the development time lenges and exciting opportunities in the newspaper interviews have been done, and for drugs and to drive down prices. This will save lives, reduce human suffering, and coming years. However, following that an- more are being scheduled. save many billions of American dollars; nouncement, many members reached out • implied he would end the Obamacare mandate to buy insurance. This would remove a to express concerns about the convention huge burden from those who don’t want or can’t afford today’s vastly overpriced plans; being held later in the year than usual. Af- Nevada New leaders elected • proposed allowing the purchase of medical insurance plans across state lines. This ter careful consideration and much discus- will reduce premiums and cut away at egregious state insurance regulations that drive amiliar faces and some welcome re- sion, the decision has been made to change up costs; turning leaders fill the Nevada LP’s the convention date . F • suggested his plan to force the F35 fighter jet to compete with a Boeing F18 will cut executive committee. Most notably, Debra The new dates for the convention are spending, which it likely would. The F35 is perhaps the military’s most overpriced Debmon (the original Libertarian Girl) June 23–25, 2017. and ineffective equipment purchase in its wasteful history; and Lou Pombo return to leadership roles Additionally, we will hold a special con- • proposed cutting the corporate income tax, which would create jobs and reduce con- on the excom. Tim Hagan remains the vention on August 5, focusing on rules and sumer prices. constitutional changes that need to be made. longest-serving Libertarian on the execu- Holding this special convention separately tive committee, with his attention to detail In the “bad” category, Trump proposed a number of new or expanded Big Government will help alleviate time constraints for rules and impeccable execution of the treasurer programs, including: issues at the main convention. duties and his leadership on the Libertarian • more retaliatory tariffs on imports, which will drive up prices for American consum- While the date is now set, the venue is message. Jason Weinman remains active ers and kill American jobs. He erroneously believes that “trade deficits” are a problem. still to be determined. Local and district af- as well, and David Colborne has recruited They actually represent a deficit of dollars in exchange for a surplus of goods—which filiates’ proposals of convention locations are enough new Libertarians “up north” that he balance each other out. This is why it’s called “trade”; welcome. As of press time, only two propos- can pass the Northern Rep position on, and • the largest increase in military spending ever—a department that’s already full of als have been submitted. Help to make this assume his new role as vice chairman. Ja- waste and so poorly managed that it is incapable of being audited; the best LPKY convention yet. Please send son Smith, former two-term vice chairman, • $1 trillion in new spending on “infrastructure”—a redux of Obama’s wasteful TARP proposals, including room rates and venue is now the chairman, bringing his business program. Highways should be funded locally. Federal interference drives up the cost details, to state chairman David Capano, at organizational skills to a team of skilled and and creates tremendous waste; [email protected]. motivated leaders. The first order of busi- • new spending on: a women’s entrepreneurship program, drug treatment, women’s ness: organize and build county affiliates. healthcare, and child care. These programs drive up taxes and kill jobs. They should Montana On March 5, Clark County LP held be left to the productive, low-cost private sector; Special election for U.S. House May 25 their convention and elected their new • forcing employers to fund paid family leave. This will kill jobs and harm small busi- executive committee, with former Nevada nesses; he Montana Libertarian Party (MTLP) LP excom member Steve Brown, who has • VOICE program aimed at painting immigrants as criminals, when in fact they are at held a special convention on March 11 T run two campaigns for Congress, winning least as peaceful as the average citizen; to choose a candidate for their U.S. house the chairmanship. Steve and his new team • stepped-up border patrols, which will block productive workers from providing seat. A special election is being held on will be building the LP from the Southern needed labor at a low cost to American individuals and businesses; May 25, as the outgoing congressman was Nevada affiliate with an outreach to busi- • a wall along the border with Mexico, which will waste money and harm relations with appointed Secretary of the Interior by the nesses as well as being an active and vocal our neighbor, while failing to stop entry by those who impose a threat; Trump administration. After three hours of attendee to County Commission meetings • “demolishing ISIS,” suggesting he will sustain U.S. meddling in the Middle East. This hearing from and asking questions of pos- and meetings at City Hall. There is a lot to will help ISIS recruit terrorists and destroy more property and human life. sible candidates, the delegates chose Mark do, and Chairman Brown stated right after Trump talks big about small cuts in government spending to distract from his pro- Wicks of Inverness to be the Libertarian his election that he is ready now to start posed massive increase in overall spending. We need the opposite: to dramatically nominee. building the party and getting results. downsize major federal programs as well as programs across the board, to balance the The MTLP’s ability to nominate a can- Meanwhile, in northern Nevada, LP Ne- budget, and to reduce total taxation. So long as lawmakers refuse to cut the overall size didate had been threatened. The Montana vada is building on our successes in 2016. In of government, they will continue to kill American jobs, create dangerous levels of gov- governor had set the election date to the November, the Washoe County Libertarian ernment debt, inflate the dollar, deplete American wealth, and leave millions of people earliest possible date under the law, and Party was formally affiliated, solidifying the financially insecure. the Secretary of State (SOS) set an early fil- organizational gains established from the Libertarians call on President Trump and Congress to focus on cutting the overall ing date — in violation of the law — which Gary Johnson for President 2016 campaign. size, scope, and authority of government so that the economy flourishes and Americans fell before MTLP’s scheduled convention. Shepherded by Chairman April Nieto, the are healthy, safe, gainfully employed, and financially secure. MTLP pushed back on the SOS and pre- Washoe County Libertarian Party is hold- vailed, forcing the SOS to postone the filing With respect to Trump’s specific proposals, Libertarians wish him every success in date, which allowed MTLP to nominate its continued on page 15... implementing his better ones, and every failure in implementing his bad ones. • Vol. 47, Issue 2 The Libertarian Party — www.LP.org Page 15 Announcing the 2018 Libertarian National Affiliate Updates Convention theme contest winner:

...continued from page 14 I'm That Libertarian! of alcoholic products. They’ll be creating ing two recurring social events each month, a special T-shirt and distributing informa- P members and donors helped the Libertarian National Committee pick a theme on the third Wednesday in Sparks, followed tion on the issue at local pubs, bars, and for the 2018 National Libertarian Convention to be held in New Orleans, La. from by their third-Tuesday event in Reno. Ad- restaurants. LJune 30 to July 3, 2018. (Save the date.) ditionally, they are planning an Easter food Current law requires any brewery pro- Members submitted over 400 suggestions to the Convention Oversight Committee drive for veterans. ducing more than 25,000 barrels per year in response to an appeal by LNC Executive Director Wes Benedict. The committee then In Carson City, Wendy Stolyarov is ac- to use the services of large, established narrowed the list of themes down to 16. A contest was held, allowing members to vote tively lobbying on our behalf in the legis- distributors, which then gain total control with their dollars for their favorite theme. lature. Her efforts have already been noted over where craft beers may be sold. They The contest was conducted in two rounds. The first round, which ran through by Riley Snyder, reporter for the Nevada use the power of government to give them March 14, whittled the list down to five semi-finalists. The final round, ending on March Independent, as well as by the Nevada For- a cut of a business they didn’t help build. 21, determined the winning theme, “I’m That Libertarian.” ward and the Nevada Transgender Allies While 25,000 barrels sounds like a lot of This theme pays tribute to the highly entertaining closing statement delivered by the Group. Additionally, Carson City’s first re- beer, it isn’t. At least three local breweries late Dr. Marc Allan Feldman, a candidate for the 2016 Libertarian presidential nomina- curring social event will be taking place at are now producing near this cap. tion, at the Libertarian National Convention last May. the end of the month. “We can’t allow special interests and big The contest raised a total of $15,395, which will be used to cover early convention expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the themes and the dollars donated: $6,222 I’m That Libertarian! $75 Free Lives Matter $5,200 Building Bridges, Not Walls $42 Be Me, Be Free $1,620 Pro-Choice on Everything $18 Make Taxation Theft Again $1,377 Empowering the Individual $15 Jazzed About Liberty $395 The Power of Principle $15 All of Your Freedoms, All $150 Future of Freedom of the Time $115 Life, Liberty, and $15 Taxation is Theft the Pursuit of Happiness $5 Liberty Here and Now $105 Rise of the Libertarians $5 Am I Being Detained! Thanks to all those who contributed ideas and funds. •

Spotlight on supporters cused on how ordinary people are affected ...continued from page 11 by economics and global finance. He’s had Graphic the LPNC created to promote the LP while campaigning for my money where my mouth is.... I do it be- many noteworthy LP leaders on his show, initiative to fight government-granted monopolies cause it’s the right thing to do.” including Carla Howell, LNC Political Di- rector, and LNC members Dr. James Lark beer industry players based in places like The Cristianos attribute their initial in- and Bill Redpath. “The radio show has been North Carolina Belgium to keep our local N.C. beer in- terest in the LP, where Joe says they “found an amazing experience,” said Airyn. The right to grow a business dustry from growing,” Ulmer said. “These like-minded people," to the influence of In their free time, Joe and Airyn enjoy avid Ulmer, 2016 Libertarian can- successful local businesses have to decide two good friends. Joe enjoys reading pro- long-distance bike rides and overnight didate for state house District 49, is whether to keep growing — and hand over liberty works, both old and new, and ap- D camping. They also volunteer to foster spearheading a promotional campaign by 30 percent of their revenue to someone preciates the timelessness of liberty that dogs through the Animal Rescue Founda- the Wake County LP to support Craft Free- else —or remain small. There’s simply no they demonstrate. tion in Tulsa. dom, an initiative to fight government- reason the law should lock craft breweries Years ago, Joe hosted a talk show on 1170 Thanks to Joe and Airyn for their con- granted monopolies on the transportation into relationships with distributors.” • Tulsa KFAQ AM, but left to start a record- ing studio in his home when he decided the tinued support of the LP. • station was too conservative. He spent his Check out Liberty Talk Radio at: Thinking of running for office? own funds to form Liberty Talk Radio, fo- LibertyTalkRadio.com It’s not too early to plan your 2018 run. LP.org/donate Visit: LP.org/run-for-office If you’d like to join the Cristianos as a Liberty Pledger, visit: and send us your inquiry. You’ll receive, from your state LP affiliate or [email protected] national LP headquarters, information you need to get started, Under “donation type,” select “monthly donation.” file your campaign, comply with your state’s Or just e-mail Jess Mears at LP News. election laws, and get on the ballot. As a Liberty Pledger, you will receive a special monthly newsletter, along with your subscription to . LP Contact 2017 Libertarian Party conventions Media Buzz Help build on the LP's 2016 growth! THE LIBERTARIAN PARTY® The Libertarian Party continues to 1444 Duke St. Be a delegate at your state convention. Alexandria, VA 22314 bask in a historic election year, gaining Phone: (202) 333-0008 Jan. 20–21: Arizona April 21–23: Washington, party status and ballot access in more Fax: (202) 333-0072 Wisconsin states in 2016. The general platform Website: www.LP.org Jan. 21: Nevada of fiscal conservatism and social lib- Feb. 4: Michigan: special April 22–23: Kansas, Utah eralism/tolerance/openness is striking LP NATIONAL CHAIR bylaws convention April 28–30: California a chord with many voters looking for alternatives outside the two-party po- Nicholas Sarwark Feb. 19: Montana April 29: Maryland, Minnesota, litical structure. Feb. 25: Alabama New York STAFF May 5–7: Florida, Indiana, Ohio — IVN, 2/28 EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR March 11: Connecticut, Wes Benedict New Jersey, Tennessee May 6: Alaska, While still not a viable electoral force, March 18: New Hampshire West Virginia the 2016 presidential election marked Political DIRECTOR the Libertarian Party’s most success- Carla Howell March 24–25: Iowa June 23–25: Kentucky (special rules convention also ful presidential run to date and the Operations Director March 24–26: Colorado on Aug. 5) most successful third-party candidacy Robert Kraus since Ross Perot in 1996. March 25: Delaware, Georgia Aug. 11–13: North Carolina Candidate and Affiliate — People’s Pundit Daily, 3/7 Support Specialist April 2: Pennsylvania Oct. 14: Massachusetts Bob Johnston April 7–8: Illinois Oct. 20–22: Nebraska The grave fear among libertarians is that Trump’s actions will represent the Special projects April 8: Arkansas, Mississippi, Nov. 4: South Carolina Nick Dunbar New Mexico very worst of his campaign promises — intervening militarily, adding to the ASSISTANT EDITOR debt, abandoning trade, restricting Elizabeth C. Brierly For updates and newly scheduled conventions, visit: LP.org/2017-state-conventions civil liberties State Affiliate Development — Politico Magazine, March–April 2017 Specialist Andy Burns LP HI fights for decrim. There are reasons why libertarianism should matter even to non-libertarians. Head of Development ...continued from page 6 Lauren Daugherty The ideology’s adherents help to keep Graphic Designer Opponents have asserted that the bill both conservatives and progressives Denise Luckey will allow police officers to have sex with honest — and from becoming intellec- prostitutes and then arrest them. But the tually complacent. They are exquisite- DEVELOPMENT COORDINATOR ly sensitive to government abuses: lib- Jess Mears bill removes this prohibition only because it would be moot, owing to the fact that ertarians are an early-warning system MEMBERSHIP RENEWALS for tyranny. They serve as a kind of police would no longer have arrest powers. Matthew Thexton conscience, too, in reminding the left Opponents also claim that the bill le- Special Projects and the right, as they embark on ... pro- Burly Cain galizes the abuse of women by pimps. But grams of government-directed social the law that makes it a felony to abuse sex change, that there are costs even to “These people object on moral principles Contact info for state affiliates: workers is not affected at all by the pro- pursuing well-meaning policies, and www.LP.org/states posed legislation. that are not subject to change based on rea- that some powers are too great to be son, logic, or evidence,” said Ryan. “It will Contact info for Libertarian Voters have been convinced of these entrusted even to good men in the be up to the larger Hawaii community to National Committee: false perceptions, so any chance that the name of a noble cause. Government www.LP.org/lnc-leadership bill will pass this year has disappeared. stand up in support of this bill and provide can be an instrument of self-righteous However, it will remain in the judiciary the political push for passage into law.” • arrogance; libertarians of all kinds, by the nature of their ideology, supply a committee as a carry-over to the 2018 ses- Decrim Hawaii website: balancing virtue of humility. sion, when it could get a fair hearing. DecrimHawaii.wordpress.com Want your — The American Conservative, 2/22 message in What have you missed recently on LP.org? LP News? • LP to GOP lawmakers: End Obamacare’s individual mandate now Need Libertarian • Fox News: LNC chair knocks Trump support of “immoral” asset brochures, For sponsorship info forfeiture T-shirts, hats, or and rate sheet, • Libertarians praise house bill to end Dept. of Education bumper stickers? write to: • LNC chair interviewed on IVN News podcast, “A Civil Assessment” • LNC regional rep Caryn Ann Harlos on the Tom Woods podcast LP News @ LP.org • The Libertarian Party opposes restrictions on peaceful immigration Visit LP Store.org Restrictions apply. • WBRE TV/NBC and WNEP TV report on Libertarian v. Scranton lawsuit